MotoGP marked a significant milestone on Thursday evening at Rimini’s Teatro Amintore Galli by unveiling the new MotoGP Hall of Fame, an event dedicated to celebrating the sport’s most legendary figures. The launch highlighted the achievements of iconic riders throughout history and showcased a redesigned Tower of Champions trophy that pays tribute to all MotoGP world champions.
This event, named MotoGP Iconic, brought together an impressive legacy featuring 23 World Championships and over 300 Grand Prix victories, encapsulating the sport’s rich history and ongoing passion.
Honoring the Legends Who Shaped MotoGP
The newly established MotoGP Hall of Fame commemorates influential riders, past and present, whose accomplishments have defined motorcycle racing. The first group of inductees included historic champions such as Umberto Massetti, Geoff Duke, John Surtees, Mike Hailwood, Phil Read, and Barry Sheene, who laid the foundation for the sport.
The ceremony also celebrated celebrated living legends, including:
- Giacomo Agostini – an eight-time world champion with 68 race wins.
- Kenny Roberts – the American trailblazer with three world titles.
- Freddie Spencer – renowned for winning both 250cc and 500cc titles in the same year.
- Eddie Lawson – dominant in the 1980s and a champion with multiple teams.
- Wayne Rainey and Kevin Schwantz – fierce rivals who defined the 1990s motorcycle racing scene.
- Mick Doohan – Australian rider who built a lasting dynasty.
- Casey Stoner – Ducati’s first world champion and one of the most talented riders ever.
- Dani Pedrosa – a member of MotoGP’s “Fantastic Four” with 112 podiums and 31 wins.
- Jorge Lorenzo – three-time world champion and longtime rival to Valentino Rossi.
- Valentino Rossi – famously known as “The Doctor,” seven-time premier-class champion and a global icon for the sport.
As Valentino Rossi took to the stage to conclude the ceremony, the audience’s enthusiastic reaction reflected his profound impact on MotoGP’s international appeal.
The Redesigned Tower of Champions: Tradition Meets Modern Design
Alongside the Hall of Fame launch, MotoGP introduced the revamped Tower of Champions trophy, an enduring symbol awarded to the world champion each season. The new look merges classic elements with a contemporary twist.
- The base is crafted from ceramic-coated aluminum, providing durability and elegance.
- A vertical column features stainless-steel plaques, each shaped to mimic a rider’s lean angle.
- Each plaque’s matte side bears the champion’s name, while the glossy side details the year, bike manufacturer, and championship number.
- The trophy honors all 76 MotoGP world champions to date, with space reserved for future titleholders.
Future Additions to the Hall of Fame Announced for 2026
MotoGP confirmed that in 2026, three additional world champions will join the Hall of Fame as official Legends, completing a comprehensive tribute to all title winners in the sport’s history. These new inductees are:
- Leslie Graham – the very first MotoGP champion, crowned in 1949.
- Libero Liberati – recognized for his 1957 championship.
- Gary Hocking – MotoGP champion from 1961.
With these additions, every historical MotoGP world champion will have received Legend status, reinforcing the sport’s respect for its heritage.
Reflecting on History While Looking Ahead
The gathering in Rimini united MotoGP’s most celebrated names, from Giacomo Agostini to Valentino Rossi, John Surtees to Casey Stoner, symbolizing the enduring legacy of motorcycle racing excellence. The Hall of Fame and the Tower of Champions now stand as permanent testaments to this heritage, inspiring current and future racers.
As the spotlight returns to the track, anticipation builds for the upcoming San Marino GP at Misano, where today’s riders aim to add their names to MotoGP’s ongoing story of greatness.
